Answers when you need them

If you have participated in any remote global mobility seminars over the past few months, you have heard corporate mobility professionals discussing the need for policy changes for assignees due to the COVID pandemic. Alternatives to long-term assignments such as short-term stays, one-way transfers, and commuter assignments are gaining attention and have been on the […]

Which important law went into effect in Turkey in 1934 and is still in use today? Made Islam the official state religion. Banned the then-latest new technology: television. Mandated that all people have surnames. Outlawed tipping.   Click here for the answer!

Any life transition brings fear of the unknown, and moving ranks high among major life events. The emotional impact of moving home, whether domestically or abroad, is one of the most stressful situations we can experience.  Some find the transition after relocating easier than others. Here are some steps you can take toward emotional well-being […]

Traffic accidents are the number one source of fatalities for international assignees and business travelers. While drivers can mitigate accident risks by adhering to local traffic laws and using seat belts, other strategies can also help.  Since 2007, United Parcel Service (UPS) drivers have been instructed to avoid left turns.  They have found this practice […]

As borders start to open, assignments that were on hold will start to move forward.  No matter how much someone prepares to move internationally, there are always surprises along the way. Here are a few common concerns you can address before your assignee moves abroad: It seems more expensive. The COLA or cost of living […]

Some countries are opening up their borders. Which country uses the following hand gesture to summon people and is now opening its borders? “If you need to beckon someone, do not do so by moving a single finger towards you. Instead, extend your arm palm down and move your fingers up and down.” Iceland South […]

While the pandemic has pushed telecommuting and online interaction to all-time highs, another unfortunate Internet activity has also been on the rise: cybercrime. Criminals exploit COVID-19 fears and our new online reliance with schemes that range from spreading misinformation about the virus to creating e-commerce links to protective gear that capture a victim’s personal information. […]

In which country should you tip ALL of these people?     Grocery bagger     Parking lot attendant     Valet parking attendant     Gas station attendant     Garbage collector     Taxi driver     Delivery person     Hairdresser     Hotel bellman     Airport porter a.  USA b.  Mexico c.  Argentina d.  Switzerland e.  Australia   Click here […]

The handshake is a common worldwide greeting, but will we continue to shake hands after the quarantine ends?  With most people using gloves and a mask, the germ transferring ritual of a handshake has disappeared despite the cultural significance. “The handshake wasn’t born out of courtesy or goodwill, but fear,” said Pamela Eyring, president of […]

More than half of the world’s population is currently under directives to stay at home. Now, more than ever, traveling virtually can be an interesting, entertaining, and stress alleviating experience. Here’s a selection of virtual getaways, all in destinations covered by Living Abroad: Open Air Museum in La Pincoya (Chile) Live webcams at the Panama […]